Meghalaya empowers local tourism champions, announces major support for homestays, infrastructure and the youth
To strengthen grassroots participation and expand the tourism ecosystem, the Department of Tourism of Meghalaya hosted an event with nomination of ‘Tourism Champions’ while rolling out key initiatives including the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Homestay Mission, infrastructure funding schemes and skill development programmes aimed at driving inclusive growth across the State’s tourism sector.
In a press statement, the Department of Tourism says that a key highlight of the event was the rollout of government support under the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Homestay Mission, which aims to create 3,000 new homestays and over 15,000 jobs by 2028. Sanction letters were distributed to the initial cohort of approved applicants.
It adds that under the Community-led Tourism Infrastructure Scheme, funding of up to INR 34 million has been announced for 58 new beneficiaries, with tiered grants ranging from INR 500,000 to INR 2 million based on site footfall. This builds upon the INR 1 million grants already awarded to 20 existing projects.
According to the statement, the event also recognised the success of the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) Homestay Scheme, which has sanctioned around INR 157 million and disbursed INR 1,020 million to over 900 beneficiaries to date. The State’s top ten performing hosts were awarded INR 20,000 each.
Conrad K Sangma
Addressing the gathering, Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, said that the State was now firmly on the tourism map both nationally and globally, with every stakeholder contributing to its transformation. He emphasised that tourism could only thrive through the development of a complete ecosystem rather than standalone events.
“The runway expansion at Umroi Airport is expected to be completed within the next 15 months, strengthening connectivity. Over the next two to three years, the sector will witness major transformation through projects such as the Shillong Ropeway, the Rain Museum in Mawsynram and new tourism centres across Sohra,” adds Sangma.
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Timothy D Shira
“Tourism has become a key driver of economic growth in the State, with tourist footfall reaching 1.8 million and continuing to rise. More than 150 tourism projects are currently being implemented with significant investments and private sector participation. With plans to develop Umiam as a global tourist destination and the establishment of a dedicated Destination Management Organisation,” says Timothy D Shira, Minister of Tourism, Meghalaya.
The statement adds that the event also focussed on capacity building and youth empowerment, with certifications distributed to students of the Institute of Hotel Management under the Chief Minister Hospitality Scheme, along with the announcement of annual stipend scholarships.
In one of the key moments of the event, a Bravery Award was presented to Teiborlang Pakma, a Tourist Buddy, for his exceptional courage and service to society.
Teiborlang Pakma, a Tourist Buddy, receives the Bravery Award for his exceptional courage and service to society
The programme also included approvals for the construction, modification and upgradation of toilets at tourist sites across the State to enhance visitor experience.
Sharing his experience, Daminot Kharshandi, a beneficiary of the Chief Minister Homestay Scheme, says that the initiative provided crucial financial confidence to launch and expand his business. He added that Meghalaya’s tourism branding has played a significant role in driving steady footfall and revenue.